UTICA, NY -- Upstate Networks Inc. unveiled a new programming resource for Android developers to integrate smartphones and tablets with vending machines and unattended payment systems. The PC2ASDAPI Library is a software package that enables use of common USB-to-serial adapters. It features UN's PC2ASD circuit board, which can be used with devices running Android 3.1 and above supporting USB host mode.

The PC2ASD replaces the keypad on a vending machine with an Android-based interface. This allows the Android device to control the item-selection process. Upstate Networks developed the PC2ASDAPI in Java programming language using the Android SDK. Rooting of devices is not required to access the USB port.

According to Upstate Networks president Chris Smolen, the library is easy to integrate. "Follow a few simple steps, and the developer's app is ready to communicate with the PC2ASD circuit board," he said. "Create an instance of the class, implement the Data Listener and the simulation of a key press is simply calling the 'send key press' method."

The programmer can then control the vending machine selection mechanism via a smartphone or tablet computer.

Located in Utica, NY, Upstate Networks manufactures hardware and software that interface vending technology with PCs and other general-purpose computers. It works with manufacturers to develop novel vending and other self-service pay-per-use equipment. Among its many recent innovations is a payment solution that allows vending machines to accept bitcoins. | SEE STORY